From Books to Bistro: African Entrepreneurs Enrich Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Denise Biong and Malick Jobe, two entrepreneurs from Senegal, have brought a touch of Africa to Santa Cruz de Tenerife through their diverse businesses. Their ventures, ranging from a bookstore to a restaurant, are making waves in the local community.

Starting with Mulema, the bookstore located in Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, Biong aims to showcase the rich diversity of African narratives. Mulema hosts workshops and discussions on Black identity and history, challenging the one-dimensional portrayal of the continent often found in mainstream media. Biong believes that each African country has its unique story and identity, and her bookstore strives to promote this.

Malick Jobe, on the other hand, manages a general store, El Africano Salomn, which offers a variety of African and Latin American products. His barbershop, Style Homme, specializes in Afro hair but caters to all hair types. Jobe also runs a Senegalese restaurant where his wife, Fatou, prepares traditional dishes, providing a taste of home to those who have emigrated.

Through their businesses, Biong and Jobe are not only offering food and literature but also serving as a reminder of the shared histories between the Canary Islands and the African continent. Their efforts highlight the importance of recognizing these connections and celebrating the diverse cultures that enrich Santa Cruz de Tenerife.